Amazon to Lease Boeing 767s for Air Cargo Operations

Woodrow Bellamy III

[Avionics Today 03-10-2016] Air Transport Services Group (ATSG), an Ohio-based aircraft leasing and air cargo transportation service provider has reached an agreement with Amazon Fulfillment Services to operate an air cargo network to serve Amazon customers throughout the United States.

“Since last summer, we have been working closely with Amazon to demonstrate that a dedicated, fully customized air cargo network can be a strong supplement to existing transportation and distribution resources,” said Joe Hete, President and CEO of ATSG.

According to a statement released by ATSG, Amazon Fulfillment Services will lease a total of 20 Boeing 767 freighter aircraft. Several ATSG member airlines, including ABX Air and Air Transport International (ATI) among others, will operate the aircraft for Amazon air cargo deliveries. The 20 leases have a duration of five to seven years, with the agreement covering operation of the aircraft for five years.

“We offer Earth’s largest selection, great prices and ultra-fast delivery promises to a growing group of Prime members and we’re excited to supplement our existing delivery network with a great new provider, ATSG, by adding 20 planes to ensure air cargo capacity to support one and two-day delivery for customers,” said Dave Clark, Amazon senior vice president of worldwide operations and customer service.